AYRTON SENNA ITEMS UP FOR AUCTION

Features » Motoring

Keith Nicol / 2012-04-24 12:44:39

The steering wheel is just one of the major attractions

If you are a confirmed petrol head and enjoy collecting automobilia, then the place to be is at Silverstone Auctions’ Spring Sale on May 16, which is well on ‘track’ for success thanks to many items boasting top flight motorsport pedigree, including several that are Ayrton Senna related. Undoubtedly the star automobilia lot is the signed Senna steering wheel from his first ever Formula One race, the 1984 Brazilian Grand Prix, when he was driving for Toleman. This item has not been for sale for at least 17 years and is estimated at between £12,000 to £16,000!

Nick Whale, managing director, Silverstone Auctions, said: “This is the very first F1 steering wheel Senna put his hands on in competition and is genuinely where a legend was born in motor racing terms.” However, fans of arguably the greatest ever F1 driver who want to show their admiration may be tempted by a very special number plate, “F 15 ENA”, which could be read as F1 SENA! Another notable highlight at the forthcoming sale on 16th May at the home of British motorsport is a Lewis Hamilton signed race helmet and "sponsor" race suit.

And all the motorsport memorabilia will be in good company because Silverstone Auctions has also secured two of Senna’s actual ex-racing cars for the sale – the 1984 F1 Toleman TG-184-2 he raced to second place in the rain soaked 1984 Monaco grand prix and a 1982 Ralt RT3 Formula 3 car. “While the cars and motorbikes did extremely well at our last auction, it was possibly one of the automobilia lots that actually stole the show. Indeed, the sale of the Ayrton Senna race helmet for £74,750 made news around the world and has further cemented Silverstone Auctions’ first-class reputation among sellers and buyers alike. “There’s also plenty to grab the attention of those with more modest budgets with signed prints, scale race helmets and models, photographs and motorsport artwork, among the automobilia items up for sale,” said Nick.

The Spring Sale takes place at Silverstone’s ultra-modern ‘Wing’ building, when also under the hammer will be modern sports cars, competition cars and classic cars. For further details about the Spring Sale visit www.silverstoneauctions.com.